Statement by H.E. Mr. Asadollah Eshragh Jahromi

Director General for International Peace and Security

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran

before the UNGA 78 First Committee

Thematic Discussions:

Conventional Weapons

23 October 2023, New York/ the United Nations

In the Name of God, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful

Mr. Chair,

The Islamic Republic of Iran extends unwavering solidarity and heartfelt condolences to the resilient nation of Palestine. We strongly condemn the heinous crimes committed by the Israeli regime.

The United States' substantial military support to the Israeli regime, including the transfer of billions of dollars' worth of weaponry, even from its own stockpiles, exacerbates the suffering of the Palestinian people. Notably, this regime is the largest cumulative recipient of U.S. foreign assistance since World War II. These arms in the hands of an internationally criticized regime are leading to disproportionate, and indiscriminate violence against the defenseless Palestinians. Both the supplier and the user are in violation of international law and humanitarian principles and so this reprehensible action demands accountability for both parties involved.

Mr. Chair,

My delegation associates itself with the NAM statement delivered by Indonesia.

Mr. Chair,

The UN Charter, particularly Article 51, firmly upholds the sovereign and inherent rights of states to acquire, manufacture, export, import, and retain conventional arms for self-defense and security. No regulation of conventional armaments or any multilateral processes, including GGE or OEWG, can infringe upon these rights. Each state's prerogative to determine its conventional capabilities and requirements, in line with legitimate defense and security needs, as well as the structure, doctrine, and equipment of its military and security forces, must be acknowledged. For credibility and effective implementation of outcome documents, consensus should be genuinely and equally observed.

BMS 7, BMS 8, and the OEWG on conventional ammunition provide valuable lessons. We acknowledge their results, especially the positive aspects for developing countries, such as the need to enhanced international cooperation, technical and technological assistance, financial support, capacity building, and fellowship programs. However, we are mindful of the views expressed by several states on divergent points, even if they didn't impede consensus. This signals the need for careful attention to avoid potential process failures.

We recognize ongoing discussions on the impact of new technologies on warfare and weaponry, including conventional arms. From our perspective, like many historical inventions, this new trend can bring both advantages and disadvantages. It's our responsibility to mitigate its adverse implications, with a strong emphasis on ensuring that developing countries are not left behind. We vehemently oppose technology monopolies and double standards, urging the UN to address any policies or positions, including by UCMs, obstructing developing countries' access to new technologies, especially when imposed by non-compliant states.

For instance, the US and certain Western nations are known for extensive arms transfers to conflict-prone regions, are imposing targeted sanctions beyond the UN resolutions and this is a clear contradiction with the international laws. Furthermore, the US transfer of cluster munitions to Ukraine undermines international efforts to safeguard civilians from indiscriminate weapons and this act is a serious violation of international humanitarian law.

On another note, the excessive arms purchases and military spending by certain countries, particularly in the Middle East, exacerbate regional peace and security challenges.

Indeed, in 2022, global military expenditure continued its upward trajectory for the eighth consecutive year, reaching an unprecedented $2,240 billion—an all-time high. It's worth highlighting that estimated military spending in the Middle East saw its first increase in four years, with a 3.2 percent uptick. It's also notable that the Israeli regime consistently receives the highest military aid from the USA.

The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction combined with the substantial arsenal of sophisticated offensive conventional weapons in the possession of the Israeli regime, which continues to threaten regional and global peace and security, warrants special attention and action from the international community.

Thank you.